In a recent interview, acclaimed actor Kevin Costner expressed his willingness to reprise his role as John Dutton in the hit series Yellowstone. However, Costner emphasized that he would only consider returning if he feels "really comfortable" with the terms presented to him.

Last May, before the Writers Guild strike, co-creator Taylor Sheridan had completed scripts for the back half of Season 5 without Costner's character. Reports of alleged demands made by Costner had surfaced, causing speculation about his future on the show. Later, Costner's representatives conveyed his desire to return for Season 5B, which is set to resume filming this spring and premiere in November, and potentially more.

However, tensions arose when Sheridan and Costner had a phone conversation last July to discuss the situation. According to industry-insider newsletter Puck, it was during this conversation that Costner outlined his demands for increased compensation, a reduced shooting schedule, and the right to review, approve, and even potentially veto every script. This did not align with Sheridan's role as the sole writer of every episode, resulting in a stalemate.

During a September child support hearing related to his divorce from Christine Baumgartner, Costner stated that he originally intended to return for a sixth season of Yellowstone. However, he claimed that he was offered less money than in previous seasons, affecting his decision. Costner also mentioned that the decision to split Season 5 into two parts disrupted the filming of his passion project, the two-part big-screen Western titled "Horizon."

Despite the off-camera tensions, Costner offered a potential olive branch in his recent interview with Entertainment Tonight at CinemaCon. He expressed his desire to participate in Season 5B, although he did not divulge further details. Costner reminisced about his enjoyment of working on the series, having completed five seasons and initially expecting to be part of two more. Acknowledging the various shows in development, including prequels and a possible Matthew McConaughey-led reboot, Costner hoped that Yellowstone would circle back to him and, if the circumstances align, allow him to return to the role.

Costner was also questioned about his vision for the conclusion of John Dutton's story when the time comes. He explained that while he had his own ideas, he respects the creative direction of Taylor Sheridan, the show's creator. Costner conveyed his thoughts to Sheridan previously but emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with him.

As fans eagerly await the return of Yellowstone, with Season 5B shaping up to be an intriguing chapter, the possibility of Kevin Costner reprising his iconic role remains uncertain. The outcome will depend on the negotiations and mutual agreement between the actor and the show's creative team.

For more updates and information on Yellowstone or other TV shows, stay tuned for further scoops.